April 17, 2009
Today, April 17th, we are joyfully celebrating our Dad's 86th birthday. We are blessed to have grown up with a father who has loved, supported, and protected us faithfully through every stage of our lives. Though he didn't formally graduate from high school, he believed in education so passionately that all 6 of his children went on to receive college degrees.
How does this relate to school? Dad understood the power and promise that education holds. While his formal education was limited, he has been a lifelong learner, reading and pursuing passions and interests with avid reading. It's no wonder that we both became teachers. His intrinsic love of learning was imparted to us, and we passionately seek to instill the same in the lives of our students.
The educational climate is stormy. Our districts are suffering from serious cutbacks. Funding is shrinking. Brilliant teachers that we respect and love are losing their positions. Class sizes are increasing. Though the decisions our district, state and government leaders are making have discouraging and disheartening consequences, we must keep our focus laser sharp and zeroed in on the students in our care. We are empowering the next generation...with skills, knowledge, and the love of learning that will determine their futures. It's a lesson we learned from our dad, and we refuse to let the negative stuff deter us. Happy Birthday, Dad!